Irvine police receive National Guard award

KABC

ABC7 Eyewitness News HD covering Los Angeles and Southern California.

July 10, 2010 12:00:00 AM PDT

IRVINE, Calif. --

The Irvine Police Department has been given the Freedom Award by the U.S. Department of Defense.The annual award is presented by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to employers who provide the best support to their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

The city of Irvine has had a long history with the National Guard and Reserve dating back to the military operations associated with the Marine Corps Air Stations, El Toro and Tustin.

"We are humbled to be recognized for our support of the men and women of our department and our city who serve our community every day with distinction," said Irvine Police Department Chief David L. Maggard, Jr. "When called to duty, our reservists serve our nation with extraordinary bravery and honor."

Irvine was selected for the award as one of 15 employers throughout the nation to receive the award.

Almost 2,500 Guard and Reserve members or their family members across the country nominated employers for exceptional support, which included providing full salary, continuation of benefits, care packages and family support to employees fulfilling their military obligation.

The Freedom Award will be presented to the Irvine Police Department during a formal ceremony Sept. 23 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.